At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supplier negotiations and drive cost-saving initiatives in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a multi-site manufacturing business focused on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and collaboration with diverse teams.
- Why this job: Take ownership of key suppliers and shape procurement strategies for success.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and analytical mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
We are working with a multi-site manufacturing business operating in complex, project-led environments, supplying engineered products into demanding industrial sectors. This is a commercially focused procurement role with a clear emphasis on supplier management, cost reduction and commercial performance. You will take ownership of key supplier relationships and spend areas, identifying opportunities to reduce cost, improve terms and strengthen supplier performance while protecting quality, service and continuity of supply.
Working closely with operations, planning and wider commercial teams, you will help move the procurement function towards a more proactive, data-led approach, challenging existing arrangements, developing the supplier base and ensuring the business is achieving best overall value. This opportunity would suit an experienced procurement professional from manufacturing who is comfortable taking ownership of suppliers, leading commercial negotiations and delivering measurable cost improvements.
The role:
- Take commercial ownership of key suppliers and procurement spend areas
- Identify and deliver measurable cost-saving and cost-avoidance opportunities
- Lead supplier negotiations covering pricing, contracts, payment terms and wider commercial agreements
- Review existing supplier arrangements and challenge historical pricing and commercial terms
- Analyse spend, pricing and supplier data to identify opportunities for consolidation, renegotiation and improved value
- Lead RFQs, RFPs, benchmarking and competitive tender activities
- Develop and maintain strong strategic relationships with key suppliers
- Monitor supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery and service
- Lead supplier reviews and improvement activity where performance falls below expectations
- Identify opportunities to rationalise and strengthen the existing supplier base
- Support sourcing and supplier selection for new products, projects and business requirements
- Manage commercial risk within supplier contracts and agreements
- Work closely with operations and planning to balance cost objectives with supply continuity and operational requirements
- Improve procurement reporting, processes and commercial visibility across the business
- Use ERP/MRP systems and Excel to support spend analysis, supplier performance and commercial decision making
The person:
- Established procurement experience within a manufacturing environment
- Strong track record of delivering cost savings through negotiation, sourcing and supplier management
- Confident managing senior relationships with suppliers and challenging existing commercial arrangements
- Experience negotiating supplier contracts, pricing and commercial terms
- Strong understanding of supplier performance management and development
- Commercially minded with the ability to identify and quantify cost-saving opportunities
- Strong analytical skills with confidence working with spend and procurement data
- Advanced Excel skills would be advantageous
- Highly organised, proactive and comfortable taking ownership of projects and supplier relationships
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence both suppliers and internal stakeholders
- Degree or CIPS qualification would be advantageous
- Experience within a high-volume or complex manufacturing environment would be beneficial
We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals.
Procurement Lead in North East employer: Continuum Recruitment Group
As a leading employer in the North East's manufacturing sector, we offer an exceptional opportunity for growth and value creation. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and supports professional development, ensuring that our Managing Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our business while enjoying a competitive package and benefits. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a thriving industry with a strong local presence.
Contact Details:
Continuum Recruitment Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Lead in North East
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Continuum Recruitment Group.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Lead in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Continuum Recruitment Group:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Continuum Recruitment Group. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Continuum Recruitment Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at Continuum Recruitment Group
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Continuum Recruitment Group!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Continuum Recruitment Group. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Continuum Recruitment Group's culture.
